What can you do when you find yourself in the right and in the minority?
There’s a hot topic under discussion within your nonprofit board of directors.
Here are 7 Tips to help you navigate the situation:
- Express your position in the discussion.
- If you fail to persuade the group, ask that the topic be revisited at the next meeting, giving everyone time to think over the problem.
- Come prepared to the next meeting with data, and possibly witnesses, to defend your position.
- Sometimes you will find support from the front, from the side, or even from the back of the room. If possible, draw out your support.
- After discussion, if the topic isn’t tabled, vote your conscience.
- Then, this is important, ask the meeting secretary to note the reasons for your “No” vote or abstention in the minutes. Make sure the note is complete and accurate before the group moves on. Taking the time to include your statement of objection may influence the group to reconsider its position on the spot. If not, you have distanced yourself from the impropriety.
- Depending upon the gravity of the situation, you may need to seek legal advice.
If your nonprofit builds a culture of integrity and accountability, unethical folk won’t stick around.
As always, I am hoping for your every success!
